6 Aug 2014

Irish stun Black Ferns

11:30 am on 6 August 2014

The New Zealand women's rugby side has been beaten 17-14 by Ireland in their second match at the World Cup in France.

Black Ferns fullback Selica Winiata

Black Ferns fullback Selica Winiata Photo: PHOTOSPORT

The defending champions, the Black Ferns led early with a try to fullback Selica Winiata and a penalty to Kelly Brazier, however Ireland scored a converted try just before the break.

Ireland went ahead with a converted try in the second half.

Penalties were traded, but Ireland held on for an historic victory.

New Zealand coach Brian Evans credits the Irish for their win, however he says his side made too many mistakes with the ball in hand and therefore couldn't mount continual pressure.

Unbeaten Ireland are set to top the group as their last game is against Kazakhstan, while New Zealand have to play USA.

The best second-placed team from the three pools will also qualify for the semi-finals, so New Zealand still has a chance.

It is New Zealand's first loss in the last four tournaments and just their second ever at a World Cup.

The Black Ferns are chasing their fifth straight World Cup title.